Primary Aldosteronism

Primary Aldosteronism (PA) is a disease caused by the overproduction of aldosterone hormone from the adrenal glands. PA causes hypertension and the majority with this disease are undiagnosed for PA. There are new insights into this matter by using biochemistry as well as advanced radiology. In 2011, a breakthrough in the genetic derangements came, identifying a mutated potassium channel gene - KCNJ5 - in about 40% of PA with adenoma. Chapters in this book include a history of the disorder, epidemiology, genetics derangements, the KCNJ5 mutations and phenotype and more.

Introduction.- Primary Aldosteronism: Molecular Mechanisms and Diagnosis.- Epidemiology and need for screening.- Low renin hypertension.- Molecular derangements in sporadic primary aldosteronism.- From genetic abnormalities to pathophysiological mechanisms.- Familial hyperaldosteronism type I.- Familial hyperaldosteronism type II.- Familial hyperaldosteronism type III.- The Aldosterone-renin ratio role and problems.- Confirmatory testing for Primary Aldosteronism.- Radiological imaging of adrenocortical tumors.- Aldosterone and cardiovascular disease.- Quality of life aspects of primary aldosteronism.- Medical treatment of primary aldosteronism.- Surgical treatment of primary aldosteronism.- Index.